Felix Mendelssohn

Elijah, Op. 70 - Vocal Score Felix Mendelssohn Unabridged edition

Elijah is probably the most dramatic oratorio ever written - crowded with stirring action and music which claims attention. It was the composer's desire to be dramatic, and he knew how to achieve his end. The text is a mosaic of biblical verses taken principally from the First Book of Kings, but having the effect of a vivid, spontaneous story. As with Mendelssohn's earlier St. Paul, the text was arranged by Julius Schubring. The English translation was made by William Bartholomew, who sent it to the composer piecemeal as he worked. The musical character of Elijah is clearly drawn, and Mendelssohn has succeeded in portraying the prophet as "a man strong and zealous, full of bitterness and scorn, the antagonist of the rabble, whether of courtiers or populace, well nigh the antagonist of the world, yet borne aloft on the wings of angels." This new large-size vocal score is an unabrdged digitally enhanced reprint of the one edited by Hermann Ktrezschmar and published in Leipzig by C. F. Peters in the early 20th century. The large size is ideal for performers, students, and interested audiences alike.